The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Thursday denied the government's apparent inability to address different complaints of public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators, prompting them to go on strike for three days beginning July 24.
In a statement, the DOTr said that it has been consulting with PUV drivers and operators about their issues, such as the Local Public Transport Route Plan.
It said that the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has always been fair in carrying out its mandate, whether to companies or cooperatives, based on the Omnibus Franchising Guidelines (OFG).
Also, the DOTr, LTFRB, and Office of Transportation Cooperatives (OTC) are open and willing to engage in communication with any group that has legitimate issues, and we pledge to resolve such concerns through consultations and forums.
On Wednesday, the transport union Manibela announced a statewide strike from July 24 to 26, citing the government's failure to address their concerns about the public utility vehicle modernization (PUVM) program.
Another transport group, Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (Piston), has signaled willingness to join the strike, according to Manibela chairman Mar Valbuena.
Meanwhile, the DOTr challenged Manibela to back up its claims with verifiable proof and documentation.
If the planned three-day transport strike goes ahead, the LTFRB has informed commuters that there will be alternate modes of transit.
